#SHOWBIZ: Aliff Aziz on Bella Astillah: I'm happy to see her move forward

New Straits Times

27-07-2025

SINGAPORE: Following his divorce from Bella Astillah, Singaporean singer and actor Aliff Aziz, 34, has expressed happiness for his ex-wife, seeing her move on with her life.
In an interview with Singapore's Berita Minggu, Aliff reacted positively to the social media buzz surrounding Bella's relationship with Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, often linked to the hashtag #BASS.
"If their happiness lies there, I am content and wish them both the very best," Aliff said, emphasising that his primary concern remains the well-being of his two children, Ayden Adrean, 8, and Ara Adreanna, 5.
"Ayden and Ara are surrounded by people who love them, God willing. That's my first thought.
"Whoever is around them, as long as they are loved and treated well... That's enough."
As a father, Aliff said he feels no jealousy when he sees his children happy.
Despite his contentment with their happiness, Aliff, the former champion of Gegar Vaganza Season 8 (GV8), admitted his deep longing for his children, having lost contact with them since 2024.
He revealed that he hasn't had the opportunity to meet or communicate directly with them, finding it difficult to watch their video recordings without becoming tearful.
Even from afar, Aliff follows his children's progress, especially around their birthdays — July 8 for Ayden and July 18 for Ara.
"I miss them so much. My prayer every day is to be able to see them again and convey everything I hold in my heart," he said.
"Daddy always remembers and prays for Ayden and Ara... I love you so much and I miss you."
Aliff hopes fate will reunite them, allowing him to explain many things.
On Feb 21, Aliff and Malaysian actress Ruhainies were fined RM3,000 by the Federal Territories Syariah High Court after pleading guilty to a khalwat charge.
This followed reports in March 2024 of a married artiste and actress being caught in close proximity at a luxury condominium.
Bella and Aliff, who married in 2016, divorced with a single talaq on June 13, 2024.
Aliff openly admitted his guilt over not being present for important moments in his children's lives.
He also worries about how society's mixed perceptions of him might affect them.
Facing a dilemma, he often debates whether to remain silent to protect his family or take legal action, which could escalate tensions.
His current focus, Aliff emphasised, is no longer on external matters or current sensations.
Instead, he's dedicating his energy to his recovery process and getting back on his feet.
He expressed appreciation for his mother's unwavering support, acknowledging the toll his issues have taken on his family.
Determined to rise, he aims to become someone they can be proud of again.
Aliff also touched on the pressure from media narratives and public perceptions, admitting there are times he feels compelled to speak up but refrains to protect his children and family.
"Sometimes I want to tell you everything. But when I think about the impact on my children and family, I end up feeling completely in the wrong," he said.